Nigeria Denies Allegations of Targeted Killings Against Christians

The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs denies claims of targeted killings of Christians, asserting that violence in the nation is not religiously motivated but stems from broader security issues. It emphasizes the government’s commitment to protect all citizens and its initiatives for improving security and resolving communal conflicts. The Ministry urges careful verification of information by the international community to maintain national unity and stability.

The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has addressed recent allegations of targeted killings of Christians, emphasizing that these claims are part of misinformation aimed at swaying international policy, particularly from the United States. The government insists that the security issues in Nigeria are not motivated by religious animosity and that violence affecting citizens crosses all faiths, especially in the predominantly Muslim northern regions.

The Nigerian Federal Government recognizes its security challenges but clarifies that incidents of violence stem from broader issues and not from religious persecution. The landscape of violence includes criminal acts, terrorism, and disputes not specifically tied to any religion, undermining narratives that suggest biases against particular faiths.

Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, significant measures have been taken to enhance security. These include the deployment of security forces, improved intelligence operations, and fostering community engagement. The military has made notable progress against insurgents and bandits, and both federal and state entities are utilizing varied strategies to tackle these challenges.

The government has initiated the establishment of a Ministry of Livestock Development to address land disputes between farmers and pastoral herders—which have historically contributed to communal tensions. In appointing a Special Adviser for Livestock Reforms, Nigeria aims to pursue sustainable pastoral farming solutions and improve communal relations.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs calls on the international community to verify reports before drawing conclusions that could escalate tensions. It encourages stakeholders—media, civil society, and foreign partners—to refrain from spreading unverified narratives that could threaten national cohesion. Nigeria champions religious tolerance and seeks international collaboration to confront its security dilemmas while resisting any distortion of its realities.

In conclusion, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs firmly denies the claims of targeted killings of Christians, attributing the existing violence to broader and complex security issues instead of religious persecution. The government underscores its commitment to all citizens’ safety and its efforts to address the root causes of conflicts, urging careful verification of information before public dissemination. Nigeria aims to preserve its tradition of religious coexistence and welcomes international support in tackling security challenges without misrepresentation.

Original Source: nta.ng